Thief ships stolen Lambretta across Basingstoke Canal in a dinghy

A RUBBER dinghy was the unlikely mode of transport used to ship a stolen moped across the Basingstoke Canal in Woodham.

The red Lambretta GP150 scooter was removed from a shed between 10.30am and 1pm on Saturday (October 27).

The dinghy which had been left in the garden was then used to transport the vehicle to the towpath on the other side of the canal.

The punctured inflatable was found, partially submerged, further up the waterway.

Officers have released a photograph of the distinctive stolen scooter and are urging anyone with information about its whereabouts to contact police.

Detective Constable Sarah Mann, investigating, said: "We are hopeful that someone may recall having seen this dinghy and mistakenly assumed that the occupant or occupants had permission to use the boat. Similarly, we are keen to speak to anyone who remembers seeing a red Lambretta scooter in the area around this time, or who has been offered such a vehicle for sale."

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Surrey Police on 101, quoting reference RM/12/5497. Alternatively, information can be passed to independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously by calling 0800 555 111.